Ukraine ranks second in Eastern Europe for blueberry cultivation area, which opens significant potential to increase production of this popular berry by nearly 100%. Romania serves as an example for Ukraine, achieving similar harvest volumes with half the plantation area by implementing innovative technologies, modern irrigation systems, and using new varieties.
This is reported by Finway
Growing Demand for Blueberries and New Export Opportunities
There is stable demand for blueberries in North America, European Union countries, Asia, and the Middle East. Recently, European retailers have preferred to transport products by means other than air freight to reduce their carbon footprint. Thanks to its advantageous geographical location, this creates additional opportunities for Ukraine in European and global markets.
“The Ukrainian blueberry industry has all the prerequisites to become a strong player in the European market if it focuses on three strategic areas: quality, technology, and sustainability.”
Expanding Hazelnut Production and Developing the Agricultural Sector
Against the backdrop of the popularity of hazelnuts among consumers in Ukraine and the EU, farmers are actively adopting the cultivation of this crop. In particular, the company “Dibrivka Agrosystems” from Cherkasy, which previously specialized in raspberries and apples, has reduced its raspberry production in recent years and instead established new hazelnut orchards on available land. Raspberry production continues, but the main focus is now on hazelnuts, the development of which has been made possible by receiving a government grant. At the same time, other agricultural enterprises are also expanding their areas for this crop, dedicating between 30 to 400 hectares for hazelnut cultivation.
Thus, Ukrainian producers of berries and nuts have real chances to significantly increase production and strengthen their positions in the international market by implementing modern technologies and focusing on sustainable production.